Alliance Has 'Come a Long Way Since "Freedom Fries" '

WASHINGTON—France's president arrived in Washington on a visit aimed at deepening cooperation with the U.S.—particularly over the Middle East and Africa—and smoothing past points of disagreement that have created friction between the two countries.

The U.S. and France have collaborated on diplomatic efforts in Syria and Iran, and the U.S. has provided limited support to French action against jihadist groups in Mali. But there have also been hiccups in diplomacy recently, including President Barack Obama's last-minute...